MAGNOLIA, Ark. (AP) - Federal and state prosecutors say 24 people have been charged with distributing methamphetamine in southwestern Arkansas and in Texas.

U.S. Attorney Conner Eldridge and 13th District Prosecuting Attorney Ian Vickery announced the charges at a news conference Thursday afternoon in Magnolia.

The two say authorities executed five search warrants in Waldo and Magnolia, Ark., and Dallas and Desoto, Texas. Investigators seized an estimated three pounds of methamphetamine, five weapons and approximately $150,000 in cash.

Eldridge says the investigation known as "Operation Crystal Clear" began in early 2012 and included controlled purchases of methamphetamine.

The prosecutors say 16 of the 24 charged are in custody and the remaining eight are being sought.